Senators approved a bill this week that sets up a legal mechanism for designating a surrogate to act on an incapacitated person's behalf, legislation supporters say is long overdue and will reduce additional stress placed on friends and families during crises.

Passage of the bill is a "monumental achievement that should be celebrated by all New Yorkers," Gov. David Paterson said in a statement. He pledged to sign the legislation, which was previously approved by the Assembly.

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